The renovation of an extensive linear residence and site facing Port Orchard waterway embraces water, greenspace and forested hillside. The home, completed this fall, serves as an artist’s studio, galleries, family space, game room, outdoor living areas and peaceful retreat. New interiors and exterior spaces and finishes, cabinetry, lighting, paving, landscape and courtyards become settings for the owner’s art + collections, three-generations of family and the wonderful colors and textures of the land + water. Inside, a monumental central stair and tapered two-story tall red cedar and steel column was designed as the residence’s entry focal point and internal landmarks, guiding the visitor’s eye to the main atrium…. and upward. Heavy wide-flange steel moment frames support the house and enable whole walls of glass. Rough, mill-finished steel contrasts refined cabinetry, stone, wood structure and defining dropped ceilings, reflecting the opener’s love of the tension between highly polished and detailed + rough, found art. Outside, A new southern “dining room” was designed for warm summer evening gatherings under a heavy-timber trellis. The focus, opposite water and island views, is a metal perforated screen. The final screen is composed of the lyrics from a Joe Cocker song of great meaning to the owners, cut from ½” marine bronze, set into dark-fired brick. “Oh My Darling, Be Home Soon….” Natural daylight and high-efficiency lighting are central players as in any gallery. From a high clerestory and extensive southern and eastern window-walls to carefully selected up-lighting, pendants, and accent fixtures, Rhodes Architecture + Light worked closely with the owner to ensure that their dark existing house would become one filled with light…. night and day. The owners, Ken and Jane, allowed us to interview them about their experience working with Rhodes Architecture + Light, and how they are feeling about living with the architecture today. What was your experience like, working with Rhodes Architecture + Light? “They worked with us because it was a remodel, an existing thing, and we had to try to make it work for all of our interests and how our family operated. They listened, and we listened, and it was a great communication back and forth.”–Jane How has the renovation changed the way you live and enjoy your home? “I remember saying to them that I want the whole floor heated because it gets so chilly down here. And we had the wood burning stove, but it was over there and now we just turn the floor heat on and we can come down. It’s cozy and nice. So we’re looking forward to winter now.”–Ken “We have 5 kids together and now a bunch of grandchildren. I wanted a marble countertop, but there’s just no way. I didn’t want it to be a place where I had to say, ‘No, no, no. Wipe up your drink, do this, do that.’ I wanted it to be a place where everybody can come with all the kids, and we make a big mess, and I can clean it up. And we can enjoy ourselves here, because that room upstairs, we almost never went in. And now we’re in there eating pizza and watching the game.” –Jane As an artist, Jane enjoyed the collaborative process. “I can’t believe it was as positive as it was. I went into it thinking it would be a great, creative, fun, collaborative thing, and I have to say, with our architects, it was. I like that creative process. I always say when I am doing a painting, it’s a series of problem solving so it wasn’t unusual for me. I am completely blown away by them and had fun with that part of it.” –Jane

This kitchen renovation began with the clients questioning whether an addition was needed to meet their wishlist. By carefully rethinking the layout, the design team showed that everything could be accomplished within the existing footprint, maximizing function, storage, and flow while keeping the home’s balance intact. Small but strategic moves, like borrowing a touch of space from the laundry room and resizing a dining room window, opened the door to a larger island, improved circulation, and better placement for the range and sink. The result is a kitchen that feels expansive and beautifully composed. Thoughtful adjustments to the structure created just enough breathing room for a layout that now supports daily life. A natural marble braided mosaic backsplash, soft and organic in texture, carries gracefully to the ceiling as a focal point, complemented by classic subway tile on adjacent wall. Every detail was executed with craftsmanship in mind, from the refined cabinetry to the layered finishes that give the space its timeless character. Blending problem-solving with design, this kitchen delivers everything the homeowners envisioned, a bright, functional centerpiece that enhances both everyday living and special occasions alike.

OPPORTUNITY: Creating a comfortable and functional space for two in the master bath was the first priority. This included a need for both counter and storage space, as well as a desire for a more spa-like atmosphere. RESULTS: Through creative problem-solving, Melinda created a beautiful bathroom that is not only loved but also functional

The Tiny Farmhouse Kitchen is by far one of the most complex, rewarding, and unforgettable projects we’ve ever completed. Designed to be fully mobile and 100% solar-powered, this one-of-a-kind kitchen on wheels pushed our creativity, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills to new heights. Every time we transported it through town, it turned heads—people would literally stop in their tracks just to get a closer look. Building a fully functional commercial kitchen in such a small footprint required precision in every detail. We carefully selected each piece of equipment to minimize electrical draw, including a commercial refrigerator and four recessed induction food warmers—all powered entirely by solar energy. Onboard water storage, filtration, and gray water management were meticulously engineered to maximize both functionality and space. The Tiny Farmhouse Kitchen features: • Custom handcrafted cabinetry • Granite countertops • Vaulted ceilings with dimmable LED lighting • A full POS system with a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot • A gas-shock lift service window with a live-edge oak flip-down counter, finished with crystal-clear epoxy for a stunning, natural look Every inch of this mobile kitchen was designed for both beauty and efficiency, blending farmhouse charm with modern utility. It’s a project we are immensely proud of—and one that perfectly captures the spirit of what we do at Artisan Kitchen & Bath: bringing bold ideas to life with craftsmanship, innovation, and heart.

This kitchen renovation began with the clients questioning whether an addition was needed to meet their wishlist. By carefully rethinking the layout, the design team showed that everything could be accomplished within the existing footprint, maximizing function, storage, and flow while keeping the home’s balance intact. Small but strategic moves, like borrowing a touch of space from the laundry room and resizing a dining room window, opened the door to a larger island, improved circulation, and better placement for the range and sink. The result is a kitchen that feels expansive and beautifully composed. Thoughtful adjustments to the structure created just enough breathing room for a layout that now supports daily life. A natural marble braided mosaic backsplash, soft and organic in texture, carries gracefully to the ceiling as a focal point, complemented by classic subway tile on adjacent wall. Every detail was executed with craftsmanship in mind, from the refined cabinetry to the layered finishes that give the space its timeless character. Blending problem-solving with design, this kitchen delivers everything the homeowners envisioned, a bright, functional centerpiece that enhances both everyday living and special occasions alike.

The renovation of an extensive linear residence and site facing Port Orchard waterway embraces water, greenspace and forested hillside. The home, completed this fall, serves as an artist’s studio, galleries, family space, game room, outdoor living areas and peaceful retreat. New interiors and exterior spaces and finishes, cabinetry, lighting, paving, landscape and courtyards become settings for the owner’s art + collections, three-generations of family and the wonderful colors and textures of the land + water. Inside, a monumental central stair and tapered two-story tall red cedar and steel column was designed as the residence’s entry focal point and internal landmarks, guiding the visitor’s eye to the main atrium…. and upward. Heavy wide-flange steel moment frames support the house and enable whole walls of glass. Rough, mill-finished steel contrasts refined cabinetry, stone, wood structure and defining dropped ceilings, reflecting the opener’s love of the tension between highly polished and detailed + rough, found art. Outside, A new southern “dining room” was designed for warm summer evening gatherings under a heavy-timber trellis. The focus, opposite water and island views, is a metal perforated screen. The final screen is composed of the lyrics from a Joe Cocker song of great meaning to the owners, cut from ½” marine bronze, set into dark-fired brick. “Oh My Darling, Be Home Soon….” Natural daylight and high-efficiency lighting are central players as in any gallery. From a high clerestory and extensive southern and eastern window-walls to carefully selected up-lighting, pendants, and accent fixtures, Rhodes Architecture + Light worked closely with the owner to ensure that their dark existing house would become one filled with light…. night and day. The owners, Ken and Jane, allowed us to interview them about their experience working with Rhodes Architecture + Light, and how they are feeling about living with the architecture today. What was your experience like, working with Rhodes Architecture + Light? “They worked with us because it was a remodel, an existing thing, and we had to try to make it work for all of our interests and how our family operated. They listened, and we listened, and it was a great communication back and forth.”–Jane How has the renovation changed the way you live and enjoy your home? “I remember saying to them that I want the whole floor heated because it gets so chilly down here. And we had the wood burning stove, but it was over there and now we just turn the floor heat on and we can come down. It’s cozy and nice. So we’re looking forward to winter now.”–Ken “We have 5 kids together and now a bunch of grandchildren. I wanted a marble countertop, but there’s just no way. I didn’t want it to be a place where I had to say, ‘No, no, no. Wipe up your drink, do this, do that.’ I wanted it to be a place where everybody can come with all the kids, and we make a big mess, and I can clean it up. And we can enjoy ourselves here, because that room upstairs, we almost never went in. And now we’re in there eating pizza and watching the game.” –Jane As an artist, Jane enjoyed the collaborative process. “I can’t believe it was as positive as it was. I went into it thinking it would be a great, creative, fun, collaborative thing, and I have to say, with our architects, it was. I like that creative process. I always say when I am doing a painting, it’s a series of problem solving so it wasn’t unusual for me. I am completely blown away by them and had fun with that part of it.” –Jane Architect: Tim James Rhodes RA AIA, Rhodes Architecture + Light Builder: Fairbank Construction Company Structural: Swensen Say Faget

Amazing bathroom transformation! Check out the before & afters...ripped down to the studs and moved some walls to create a clean, crisp transitional bathroom retreat complete with freestanding tub and large shower. Even added a window to bring in some great natural light. Problem solving makes for great unique solutions and a thoughtful space.

Project highlight – We are in the mission to improve the sage green galley kitchen in a cozy house in SF bay area. Homeowners’ wish list for the new kitchen- 1. Improve lighting 2. More storage 3. More countertop space 4. Light maintenance countertop 5. Refrigerator door conflicts with wall. 6. Better flow 7. Add a mini Fridge How did we transform the kitchen? 1. Added recessed light to ceiling & pendant light above the sink. Lighter color cabinet, back splash & countertop will bright up the space as well. 2. Adding a tall pantry with pull out shelves to the kitchen takes care the food storage. We also add 15 linear feet of base storage space under banquette seating. 3. Designating food storage in pantry clear out plenty of countertop space for food prep. 4. No more grout line on countertop. The engineer quartz countertop not only gives a beautiful touch to the kitchen but easy maintenance at the same time. 5. Common problem solved by adding a pantry between refrigerator & returning wall. Now the Ref door can be wide open with easy access to food. 6. The small peninsula in existing kitchen interrupts the flow and make kitchen feel smaller. It’s an item being removed. 7. Mini beverage fridge adds value to the kitchen for sure. Now, all drinks have a new home!

Recently, TaskRabbit challenged a group of 10 Taskers to build a Tiny House in the middle of Manhattan in just 72 hours – all for a good cause. Building a fully outfitted tiny house in 3 days was a tall order – a build like this often takes months – but we set out to prove the power of collaboration, showing the kind of progress that can be made when people come together, bringing their best insights, skills and creativity to achieve something that seems impossible. It was quite a week. New York was wonderful (and quite lovely, despite a bit of rain), our Taskers were incredible, and TaskRabbit’s Tiny House came together in record time, due to the planning, dedication and hard work of all involved. A Symbol for Change The TaskRabbit Tiny House was auctioned off with 100% of the proceeds going to our partner, Community Solutions, a national nonprofit helping communities take on complex social challenges – issues like homelessness, unemployment and health inequity – through collaboration and creative problem solving. This Tiny House was envisioned as a small symbol of the change that is possible when people have the right tools and opportunities to work together. Through our three-day build, our Taskers proved that amazing things can happen when we put our hearts into creating substantive change in our communities. The Winning Bid We’re proud to report that we were able to raise $26,600 to support Community Solutions’ work. Sarah, a lovely woman from New Hampshire, placed the winning bid – and it’s nice to know our tiny home is in good hands. #ATinyTask: Behind the Scenes The Plans A lot of time and effort went into making sure this Tiny Home was as efficient, cozy and welcoming as possible. Our master planners, designer Lesley Morphy and TaskRabbit Creative Director Scott Smith, maximized every square inch in the little house with comfort and style in mind, utilizing a lofted bed, lofted storage, a floor-to-ceiling tiled shower, a compost toilet, and custom details throughout. There’s a surprising amount of built-in storage in the kitchen, while a conscious decision was made to keep the living space open so you could actually exist comfortably without feeling cramped. The Build Our Taskers worked long, hard shifts while our team made sure they were well fed, hydrated and in good spirits. The team brought amazing energy and we couldn’t be prouder of the way they worked together. Stay tuned, as we’ll be highlighting more of our Tiny House Taskers’ stories in coming days – they were so great that we want to make sure all of you get to know them better. The Final Product Behold, the completed Tiny House! For more photos, be sure to check out our Facebook page. This was an incredibly inspiring project, and we really enjoyed watching the Tiny House come to life right in the middle of Manhattan. It was amazing to see what our Taskers are capable of, and we’re so glad we were able to support Community Solutions and help fight homelessness, unemployment and health inequity with #ATinyTask.

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients. We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space. To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space. The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

We installed this garden a few years after the major installation. There were small pieces of the evil plant Equisetum in the soil mix, that over time became a pest. We shut off the water and put in a desert garden instead. Problem solved.Caitlin Atkinson

OPPORTUNITY: Creating a comfortable and functional space for two in the master bath was the first priority. This included a need for both counter and storage space, as well as a desire for a more spa-like atmosphere. RESULTS: Through creative problem-solving, Melinda created a beautiful bathroom that is not only loved but also functional

This compact DC kitchen was in dire need of space saving tricks and we used several. The kitchen features two tip-on toe kick drawers, sink tilt out, lazy susan, blind corner cabinet and custom vertical wood dividers over the frig. The original kitchen layout was L shaped because space did not allow for full depth base cabinets on the right wall. Problem solved -- we simply built cabinets that were 18" deep which still provide loads of storage as well as much needed counter top space.

"We converted an exterior window to a door (which required moving wires, new framing, tile floor transitioning, stucco replacement and painting to match exterior, and hardware install), removed spa tub in master bath and replaced with a custom designed tile ""rug"", replaced shower/tub in guest bathroom with a walk-in shower, replaced kitchen/bath cabinetry with new custom designed cabinets and installed new hardware on them, installed Quartz counter tops on multi-surfaces, updated a complete surround sound system for multiple rooms, installed new Smart TV in kitchen, hung art pieces, installed new gas line and electrical for outdoor BBQ, converted all overhead lighting to LED cams, installed new electrical plugs throughout, installed new decorate lights inside and outside, and installed and plumbed new sinks, dishwasher and water faucets in kitchen, laundry and bathrooms. Member Comments: We have worked with many contractors over the years, and this crew of Kerry, Jake, Randall and Kevin were incredibly fantastic to work with! The professionalism and expertise of this young crew were EXCEPTIONAL!!!! There was not one job too small or one job too big. ""No"" was never an answer to any question. The price was right on target throughout, their promptness for each day's work was consistent, a day did not go by that we didn't know what the schedule was or who was coming, they were all extremely intelligent and capable of problem-solving any issue, they created a pleasant and fun atmosphere amid all the dust, and the workplace was kept clean at all times. Kerry is the key to this whole project. His organizational skills were incredible and kept everything running smoothly DAILY. We were never out of touch with him. He has an easy going/friendly manner that never was frazzled. His pricing was on target for agreed upon and added tasks as the project ensued. His paperwork presentation was very thorough and left nothing to question. All in all, this company is a gem! They became friends. How cool is that?" ~ Patty P, Client Photos by: Kerry W. Taylor

Customer did not want to see the TV on this project when not in use. Solution ? Hide the TV behind a painting ! Notice the painting below the TV, that was hanging above the fireplace. We duplicated the painting to use in our custom Art Screen. Turn on the system and the painting rolls up into the frame, problem solved !

This home remodel was all about creating a modern oasis for easy entertaining and family life while accentuating the existing architecture of the home. It was critical to harmonize the kitchen with the remainder of the home and we achieved that by bringing a fresh and clean palette throughout the entry, living and kitchen areas. Every aspect of this design was thoughtfully curated in the best interest of the structure of the home and the desires of our clients. We highlighted the negative wall space by adding a textured three dimensional tile to the entire back wall. To balance, we added an asymmetric lower bank of storage with open pockets for easy access. We blended a fine linen veneer that provides a soft contrast to the back wall cabinets and the island. For additional visual interest we added a grey wood veneer to complete the remainder of the space. To continue the theme of harmony we needed to open up the divider wall between the living and kitchen, without removing it- as it was a critical structural shear wall. To problem solve, we mirrored the vaulted architecture of the kitchen in the opening to add consistency throughout the space. The result: A crisp and contemporary aesthetic guests are sure to be WOW’d by.

If you do not have a designated room or space for your laundry appliances, this is the perfect solution. Hide them behind some curtains, add a wood top and voila...problem solved!

The room, architecture and decor did not lend itself to a place for electronic equipment. The homeowner did not want to see any black boxes within the room. So we mounted the equipment vertically behind the 75" Sony XBR TV with Flagship Triad Soundbar on a articulating arm TV mount able to be easily moved out for access and service. Subwoofer mounted in the ceiling shown upper right of TV and Triad side/rear channels not shown. All easily controlled by a Control 4 SR260 remote or Control 4 7" Touchpanel within the room. Problems solved again and again!

Malibu Glass Box House by Klopf Architecture Following the devastating Woolsey Fire of 2018, the site in Malibu offered a unique opportunity to rebuild not just a home, but a new architectural composition that highlighted the property’s potential while navigating strict fire-rebuild codes in the area. Designed by Klopf Architecture, this project embraced a set of limitations and translated them into an architectural asset. The city’s fire-rebuild process required the new structure to remain close to the original footprint, size and bulk, a constraint that ultimately clarified the architectural direction. Perched near the front of a long, narrow lot, the new home frames and overlooks a private, park-like rear expanse, an uncommon luxury especially in this part of Malibu . Without a fixed program, the design process allowed for a different kind of creative focus allowing Klopf Architecture the opportunity to explore how a modernist home could best respond to this site. The team approached the project not with a list of requirements, but with a question: How might a modernist live here? What spatial qualities would inspire calm, connection, and a sense of wonder in this setting? The process became less about problem-solving and more about architectural storytelling—letting the site, the light, and the principles of modern design guide the form and flow of the home. The response emerged in the form of a glass-box pavilion, an open, Mid-Century Modern inspired living, dining, and kitchen space that floats at the edge of the property’s natural descent. Connected to the more enclosed, private areas of the home by a glass-walled hallway, the living pavilion becomes a distinct centerpiece of the design. It opens on all four sides to the landscape with decks and patios on the flanks, an internal garden and water feature to the north, and a dramatic unguarded view of the expansive backyard and ocean horizon to the south. Because of the mandated footprint, careful planning was required to ensure every space could still engage with light, landscape, or both. Strategic voids in the form of atriums and courtyards allow daylight to filter deep into the home’s core, while offering moments of surprise and retreat. These design gestures allow natural light to filter deep into the interior, creating a sense of brightness and openness throughout the day. At the same time, they expand the perceptual boundaries between inside and out, making the home feel more expansive while anchoring its connection to the surrounding landscape. The siting of the house is what gives it its unique character. Rather than receding into the backyard like the neighboring homes, the house holds a slight prominence. From the central living pavilion, stepping down into the landscape feels more like entering a secluded park where a separate existing accessory structure, trail, and recreational areas await. The home’s modest street presence gives way to this unfolding drama of space, view, and nature. Fire-resilient materials and assemblies are integrated seamlessly throughout including triple-pane glazing, under-slab and roof insulation, and locally sourced fire-rated cladding ensure the house not only meets Calfornia’s rigorous wildland-urban interface (WUI) standards, but feels effortlessly aligned with them. While technical decisions like fire-hardening and mechanical systems presented some construction challenges, particularly around the cantilevered glass box, the team found a functional compromise that preserved the integrity of the design. Inside, a restrained palette and exposed post and beam design celebrate the ethos of mid-century modernism. A central circulation spine extends from the entry to the rear glass wall, offering a continuous visual link from street to ocean. Spaces such as the library and office, though more intimate in scale, are never cut off from nature as each opens to its own unique courtyard or garden view. Though born out of a strict regulatory framework and developed without a specific client, the rebuild design unfolded with remarkable clarity. Grounded in site logic, refined by limitations and an emphasis on timeless spatial relationships – light, proportion, and a strong connection to nature, the resulting design feels both effortless and uplifting. The home lives lightly on the land, opens generously to its surroundings, and strikes a careful balance between privacy, openness, and calm. For Klopf Architecture, it stands as a compelling case study in how site, code, and circumstantial constraints can inspire enduring, modernist architecture. With years of experience reimagining mid-century modern design for how people live today, the firm took the project’s limitations as an opportunity. The result is a home shaped by open, flowing spaces, strong indoor-outdoor connections, and a calm, clear sense of structure. It’s a good reminder that even with strict constraints, there’s still room for architecture to breathe—and for modernism to keep moving forward. Klopf Architecture project team: Geoff Campen, John Klopf, AIA, and Sherry Tan Structural Engineer: ZFA Contractor: Maison D’Artiste Photography: ©2025 Mariko Reed Year Completed: 2023